49ers training camp bubble watch: WR DeAndre Carter

With training camp approaching at the end of July, we’re taking a look at the 49ers that may find themselves in a fight to make the final 53-man roster.

New San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan was hired having produced top-10 offenses in six of his nine seasons as an offensive coordinator. He’ll have his work cut out for him with San Francisco, inheriting one of the league’s worst offenses, which included a bottom-of-the-barrel passing attack.

Shanahan’s first task was to rebuild the foundation of offensive personnel with the help of new general manager John Lynch. The only prominent player remaining from last season’s quarterback and receiving corps is wideout Jeremy Kerley. Lost among names like Brian Hoyer and Pierre Garçon is little-known receiver DeAndre Carter, the new regime’s first addition to the offense back in February.

Carter, 23, played four season at Sacramento State, reeling in 207 receptions for 2,760 yards and 35 touchdowns. His production increased from season to season, culminating with 1,321 yards and 17 touchdowns his senior year.

Carter was signed as a rookie free agent by the Baltimore Ravens after the 2015 draft. After falling victim to the Ravens’ roster cuts in August, he spent most of 2015 on the Oakland Raiders’ practice squad. He was released again in December but signed shortly after with the New England Patriots. Carter competed through training camp but was released at final cuts before the start of last season.

Carter (5-8, 190) is a natural fit at slot receiver. Unfortunately, he finds himself in a depth chart that will be difficult to climb. Kerley, the likely starter, was re-signed by the 49ers to a three-year deal in the offseason. Lynch also drafted shifty fifth-round Louisiana Tech wideout Trent Taylor, who made a strong first impression throughout the offseason program.

Carter may be in completion for a spot on the 53-man roster if the 49ers elect to keep six receivers, with the top-five looking like Garçon, Kerley, Marquise Goodwin, Aldrick Robinson and Taylor. If they don’t carry six, Carter’s best chance at remaining with the team is on the practice squad.